How to Get from Hong Kong to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, home to the breathtaking scenery that inspired the movie Avatar, is a must-visit destination in China. While Hong Kong is a significant transportation hub, the journey to Zhangjiajie requires careful planning. This comprehensive guide will detail the most efficient route: by train via Guitang.
Why Choose Train Travel?
- Cost-effective: Train travel often proves more budget-friendly than flying, especially for solo travelers or couples.
- Scenic Route: The train journey offers picturesque views of the Chinese countryside, providing a glimpse into local life.
- Comfort: Trains generally offer more legroom and freedom to move around compared to planes, making the journey more comfortable.
Step-by-Step Guide: Hong Kong to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Here's a breakdown of the journey:
1. Hong Kong to Shenzhen North
- Method: MTR (Mass Transit Railway)
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour
- Cost: Around HK$50
- Details: Take the East Rail Line from Hung Hom Station in Kowloon to Lo Wu Station or Lok Ma Chau Station. Both stations connect to mainland China border crossings.
2. Border Crossing: Shenzhen to Shenzhen North
- Duration: Allow 1-2 hours for immigration and customs.
- Details:
- Exit Hong Kong at Lo Wu or Lok Ma Chau.
- Complete mainland China immigration and customs.
- Take the Shenzhen Metro to Shenzhen North Station (Line 4 or 5).
3. High-Speed Train: Shenzhen North to Guitang
- Method: High-speed train (G-series)
- Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
- Cost: CNY 350-500 (US$50-$70) depending on seat class.
- Booking: Advance booking is highly recommended. Use online platforms like Trip.com or China Highlights.
4. Guitang to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
- Method: Local bus or taxi
- Duration: 30 minutes (bus) or 15 minutes (taxi)
- Cost: CNY 10-20 (bus), CNY 50-80 (taxi)
- Details:
- Buses depart regularly from Guitang Railway Station to the park entrance.
- Taxis are more expensive but offer a quicker, direct journey.
Estimated Travel Time and Cost
| Leg | Method | Duration | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hong Kong to Shenzhen North | MTR | 1 hour | $6-7 |
| Shenzhen North to Guitang | High-speed train | 3-4 hours | $50-70 |
| Guitang to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park | Bus/Taxi | 30-60 minutes | $1.5-$10 |
| Total | 7-8 hours | $60-80 |
Note: Prices and travel times are approximate and may vary depending on the season, time of day, and availability.
Essential Tips
- Visa Requirements: Ensure you have the necessary visas for entering mainland China.
- Currency Exchange: It's advisable to exchange Hong Kong dollars (HKD) for Chinese Yuan (CNY) before your trip. ATMs are available at major stations.
- Language: While English signage is common in transportation hubs, learning basic Mandarin phrases will be beneficial.
- Connectivity: Consider purchasing a local SIM card with data for easy navigation and communication.
FAQs
**Q1: Is it possible to fly directly from Hong Kong to Zhangjiajie?**
While there are flights from Hong Kong to Zhangjiajie Hehua (Wulingyuan) International Airport (DYG), they often involve layovers and can be significantly more expensive than the train journey.
**Q2: What is the best time to visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park?**
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Avoid peak travel seasons like summer and national holidays.
**Q3: Are there luggage storage facilities at train stations?**
Yes, both Shenzhen North Station and Guitang Railway Station offer luggage storage facilities, providing convenience for travelers.